Gouthwaite Reservoir Nature Reserve

Gouthwaite Reservoir Nature Reserve and its site of Special Scientific Interest attracts a wonderfully wide range of wetland birds as well as some of the most majestic raptors in the area.

Gouthwaite Reservoir Nature Reserve has a car park and picnic area which operates on an honesty box system, as well as three viewing points along the reservoir, which drops to a lower level in the summer months providing ideal breeding and feeding grounds for waders.

This beautiful reservoir attracts visitors all year rounds to see the variety of birdlife that either lives or rests on its waters. Oyster Catchers, Willow Warblers, Black Caps and spotted Flycatchers are common. King Fishers are often seen when the water level is low and Green woodpeckers live on the north bank of the Reservoir. Geese and other waterfowl are common with regular winter visits from goosanders, tufted duck, and whooper swans.   Looking up you stand a good chance of seeing red kite or buzzard, and even marsh harriers, merlin, osprey and just occasionally Golden Eagles are sighted on passage.